Ten women recognised at Zuri Awards in Nairobi

Ten women from different sectors were honoured in Nairobi at an awards ceremony marking the 10th anniversary, recognising leadership and achievements across the country.

The event, organised by the Zuri Foundation, brought together government officials, development partners and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, the foundation’s co-founder, Muthoni Gitobu, said gender inequality continues to limit women's opportunities across Africa and called for stronger policies to address the gap.

“Women need better access to land, capital and business opportunities,” she said.

“Women earn 23 per cent less than men globally, face increased vulnerability to sexual violence and exploitation, and shoulder a greater burden of unpaid care and domestic labour.”

Gitobu added that many women making a difference in society often go unnoticed.

“When we started the Zuri Awards, we realised that many impactful stories remain unseen and unheard. Once you are seen, don’t let people unsee you,” she said.

The event’s chief guest, public health specialist Dorothy Onyango, said recognising women’s achievements is important in advancing gender equality.

“Women are powerful contributors to our nation’s economy, driving growth, innovation and job creation,” she said, adding that their influence also extends to education and nurturing future generations.

According to data cited by the foundation, African economies lose billions of dollars annually due to gender disparities that limit women’s participation in economic activities.

This year’s honourees were recognised for their work in sectors including public service, agriculture, media, education and technology.

Among those honoured was Rose Wambui Thuku of Nafisika Trust for public service and Karen Cherono of Agromind AI for work in agricultural innovation.

Others included Were Apondi of Project Red Lipstick for media, Caroline Nyagoa of the Women in STEAM Initiative for promoting women in science and technology, and Liz Njeri Kamau of Beyond The Flow, together with Margaret Wangui Rithari of Protect a Girl Image Organisation, for their work in education.

Additional honourees were Dr Anisa Mburu of the SheFights Cancer Foundation, Chebet Birir of Restored Minds Akilicare Kenya and Standard Media Group, Asmai Hamo of Great Vibes Mind, and Lucy Murrey of The Ambitious Girl Initiative.

Julius Weche, an adjunct lecturer at Esami Business School, said empowering women leaders is important for national development.

“As we celebrate these honourees, we must focus on empowering women’s leadership,” he said.

According to the Zuri Foundation, the Zuri Awards were established to recognise women working in different sectors and to highlight their contributions in communities across the continent.